An out of the ordinary Experience!

Duration

30 to 45 minutes

About

Looking for an experience that’s “out of the ordinary"? Emerald Village offers night-time underground mine tours that unlock vibrant hidden colors available only under ultraviolet light, commonly called black light. The brilliant coatings in the Bon Ami Mine are large deposits of Hyalite Opal, a form of opal found in this area. Under ultraviolet light, these coatings fluoresce or glow a vivid lime green. The effect, underground at night, is amazing!

Although the mine is small, over 54 different minerals and gems have been found there, including some that fluoresce pink, red, orange and even phosphorescent blue! Using shortwave ultraviolet lamps, guides reveal deposits of vivid green Hyalite Opal, one of the rarest and brightest fluorescent minerals in the world. Bring your smartphone or camera for some great photos!

The black light tours are strictly limited in capacity, and are offered only 12 times a year! The tour includes a short walk guided by our professional staff using high-power shortwave ultraviolet lights. You’ll enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience that may not be like you expect! The tour lasts about 30-45 minutes and costs $22.00 for ages 13 and up, and $12.00 for ages 5-12. Tours are generally conducted regardless of the weather, but can be canceled (with a full refund) for extremely poor conditions or circumstances beyond our control. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket (and an umbrella if the weather is bad). We hope to see you underground at one of the most unique experiences available, the Black Light tour at Emerald Village, home of REAL mines and REAL fun!

Emerald Village closes after daytime activities at either 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, depending on the season. If you are coming earlier in the day to Emerald Village, consider going out for dinner at one of our local restaurants and returning for the Black Light tour. Gates open one hour prior to the tour times shown. We suggest you arrive 30 to 45 minutes prior to tour time to enjoy the educational exhibits and unique shopping in the gift shop. Allow plenty of travel time since we are sometimes further away than you expect!

Wheelchair/Stroller Access Note:

Because of the numerous steps and railroad tracks the underground Black Light Mine Tour is NOT recommended for wheelchairs, strollers or walkers. The gift shop and restrooms are minimally handicap accessible.

What to Know

• We use high-power ultraviolet lamps and provide safety glasses.
• You provide comfortable walking shoes and a curiosity for unique experiences!
• Well-behaved dogs on a leash are allowed but discouraged because some don't enjoy the unusual lighting as much as their owners! Consider leaving them in the car.
• Face masks are welcome but not required.